Implications of Online Teaching and Learning

The proliferation of online courses has become a major concern for some educators when it comes to whether they apply valid and reliable instruments to asses learning outcomes. In addition, few publications seem to have dealt with the faculty realm that addresses the front-end fundamental learning principles of instruction that underlie quality online learning. Overall, there does not seem to be a clear coordination or consensus of thought and methodology between what is expected from online courses, and what is generally delivered at the end of a learning period. As a result, course management systems, which are mainly computer-based, vary in type and delivery approach from institution to institution. In this article, the authors discuss the implications of interactivity and personal approach to learning on the following: (1) the instructional strategies; (2) the online teacher; (3) the online learner; and (4) the future.